Mini Computer Case Study

Introduction

While developing a portable mini android based computer, The
client of Aavid, Thermal division of Boyd Corporation, had
experienced issues with its new product’s reliability. The
minicomputer was configured to shut down when temperatures
inside reached 45°C and was doing so unexpectedly during
charging. For the client time was critical as the manufacturing
line was stopped to resolve this issue.

The Challenge

Quickly detect failure shutdown by analyzing current solution and
design and make suggestions to solve the issue.

The Solution

Over a weekend Aavid developed a thermal model of the existing
product and verified the model through physical testing in their
lab.

Aavid conducted a CFD simulation for various concept solutions
that examined heat isolation and heat transfer within the device.

The Deliverables/Results

Aavid discovered that:

• Charging increased the battery temperature by 5.3°C but the
increase in temperature is due to heat conducted from the PCB to
the battery.
• PCB temperature results indicated that it heats up earlier than the
battery to more than 45°C and results in system shutdown.
• With minor adjustments to the design, Aavid was able to isolate
components for the product to operate in all modes.

The client took Aavid’s suggestions to adjust the layout in the
device to prevent future shutdown during charging and returned
to manufacturing with limited delay.